Can Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 46 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Amano Shrimp

Caridina multidentata

Chili Rasbora

Boraras brigittae

🐠Family Group
Amano Shrimp
Invertebrates
Chili Rasbora
Cyprinids
Temperament
Amano Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Chili Rasbora
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
18–28°C
Chili Rasbora
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
6–7.5
Chili Rasbora
4–7
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
4–14
Chili Rasbora
1–10
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Chili Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
Moderate
Chili Rasbora
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 46 L
Amano Shrimp
38 L
Chili Rasbora
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Amano Shrimp
BottomMiddle
Chili Rasbora
MiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Amano Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Chili Rasbora
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)

Behaviour & Temperament

Amano Shrimp is a peaceful species (1/10), while Chili Rasbora is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Amano Shrimp may occasionally assert dominance over Chili Rasbora.

Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora both frequent the Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

Worth noting: Amano Shrimp is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 4–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 46 litres with a minimum length of 45 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Amano Shrimp is an aggressive eater that may prevent Chili Rasbora from getting enough food.

Because Amano Shrimp is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Chili Rasbora receives an adequate share.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 46 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora need?

A minimum of 46 litres (tank length at least 45 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Amano Shrimp or Chili Rasbora aggressive?

Amano Shrimp is peaceful (1/10) and Chili Rasbora is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Amano Shrimp and Chili Rasbora need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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